The MLS program focuses on areas central to research and practice in library and information science. It emphasizes the theoretical and conceptual foundations of the field. The application of the results of scholarly research are related to current practices and are analyzed with the goal of advancing the quality and scope of services in a variety of information settings. It provides a comprehensive foundation for professional careers in all libraries, information centers, and other agencies engaged in information activities.

The MLS program is fully accredited by the American Library Association (ALA).

Program Requirements

The program for the MLS degree requires 36 credit hours of academic work to be completed with a minimum average of B within five calendar years from the first registration. In the non thesis option, all credits are course work. The thesis option requires 30 credits of course work and 6 credits of thesis research. The usual and recommended course of study for a full time student is approximately 18-24 months.

Students have flexibility in completing the program. Students may take courses in daytime and evening and may change from part-time to full-time and vice versa, as their circumstances permit. Most MLS courses are offered both day and evening on a regular rotation; however, there are a few courses that are only offered during the day or evening.
The History/Library Science (HiLS) specialization requires 54 credit hours for the MLS and MA in History. The time limit for completion of all degree requirements for the dual degree specialization is five years.

Each student works with a faculty advisor to design a suitable course of study. Four courses are required upon entry into master's study:

• LBSC 601 Information Use, OR LBSC 605 Archival Principles, Practices and Programs (for students in the Archives, Records, and Information Management specialization), OR LBSC 640 Library Media Specialists as Information Professionals (for students in the School Library Media specialization)
• LBSC 650 Information Access
• LBSC 670 Information Structure
• LBSC 690 Information Technology

It is recommended that students complete the four required courses before taking electives. LBSC 635 Management and Administration for the Information Professional or LBSC741 Seminar in School Library Media Program Administration is required, also. The other seven courses are electives selected by the student and the advisor.

At least 24 credits of the 36 required must be LBSC courses taken at the College. A student may take courses in other UMCP departments or through the Consortium at other area institutions (limit of nine credits). Six credits may be transferred from another accredited graduate program and from Advanced Special Student status at UMCP. Information about policies and procedures governing degree requirements and courses taken outside Information Studies is available from the Student Services Office.

For a full listing of courses, see the Course Descriptions page.

Specializations and Concentrations

Students may also choose to complete a Master's Thesis. Here are the requirements: http://www.gradschool.umd.edu/catalog/masters_degree_policies.htm#10 

Academic Options

Students may choose to specialize in one of two areas:

• Archives, Records, and Information Management
• School Library Media

Students may also choose from two concentrations:

• E-Government
• Lifelong Access

Career Course Plans

Guides have been developed by faculty and staff to assist students in choosing courses and other academic pursuits (e.g., field work, research, participation in professional association activities) that will best prepare them for their career.

Field Study

Students may participate in a field experience appropriate to their individual career goals, in which they obtain professional experience under the direct supervision of a professional librarian or information specialist. Students spend 100-140 hours per semester at the site and produce a written report. They meet regularly during the semester with the instructor to discuss assigned readings and to share their field experiences.

Approximately 200 institutions sponsor internships, including the Library of Congress, George Meany Memorial Archives, Children's Hospital National Medical Center, Canadian Embassy Library, Maryland State Library, Montgomery County Department of Public Libraries, National Wildlife Federation Library, National Agricultural Library, National Archives and Records Administration, and University of Maryland Libraries.